March 31, 2025 – “Lessons From an Ice Storm” – by Paul Smith

Lessons From an Ice Storm
Over the weekend our area was impacted by freezing rain. Many in our area are still without power twelve hours later. Broken tree limbs and fallen trees litter the yards and rural roads. Even a major north south highway was closed for hours to deal with a high-power line on the road.
We did not choose the type of precipitation that fell this weekend. I would choose peaceful rain or a gentle snowfall. Instead, we got precipitation of the freezing variety. We did not get to choose the severity of the weather. No one wants to see others try to keep warm in homes where the outside temperature is freezing and there is no power to keep the furnace running. I received requests for prayer from people who knew of people cut off from help.
Throughout life we face challenges we did not ask for. I have a daughter who manages a large emergency room. Every day many people show up there who began their day with no intention of being a patient in an emergency room. Some cases are minor. Some, sad to say, pass on.
We may think our life is perfect. Perfect health, perfect relationships, and a perfect living situation. However, the Bible says our lives are short and will not always be “perfect.” What matters is, are we ready for what comes next?
“Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” James 4:13-14 NIV
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